Attorneys seek dismissal of second JCPS discrimination suit

Attorneys on both sides of a second discrimination lawsuit against Jefferson City Public Schools are seeking a dismissal of the case.

Laura Cooper, a former Jefferson City High School English teacher, filed an age and gender discrimination lawsuit against the district in 2014, alleging she was subjected to discrimination and harassment by the school's administrators.

In her 2014 petition to the court, Cooper claimed she was "obligated to work in an environment that was hostile to female employees."

Paperwork was filed electronically Wednesday on the Cole County Circuit Court website, noting both parties are seeking dismissal of the case. Judge Patricia Joyce would need to approve the dismissal before the case is officially dropped. According to court documents, once the case is officially dismissed, it cannot be reopened or refiled, and it's been agreed both parties will pay their own attorneys' fees.

District officials did not comment about whether a settlement was reached.

"I can't comment on current litigation, but I can assure the community we value a safe learning environment for both students and staff. We feel confident we are moving in the right direction as we focus on the learning process, the workplace culture and student behaviors as we are truly stronger together," Superintendent Larry Linthacum said.

The request to dismiss the lawsuit comes roughly three months after former high school journalism teacher Karen Ray won her age and gender discrimination suit against the district and was awarded $235,000 in damages plus attorney's fees.

Cooper took the stand during Ray's trial in May and recounted hearing Jeff Dodson, former high school principal, make several remarks about needing to "get rid of" the older teachers.

She also testified there had been several instances where she felt fearful or intimidated by Jeff West, current assistant principal, and David Wilson, a former assistant principal.

Cooper's case was formerly scheduled to begin in mid-September.